Safe in the Summer

We work all year long, saving our pennies to go on that family trip.  This is the time of year when we break with routine, let loose and just have fun.  We may not be thinking of our health when we are packing our suit cases and on our way but we all have likely experienced a vacation gone bad due to illness.  This week I offer three simple suggestions to ensure a healthy happy vacation.

First is likely the most obvious.  Beware of the sun.  Many of us spend a great deal of time inside all year long.  We work in offices, not fields.  Our body is not used to the sun.  I have seen my son turn into a swollen red lobster before my eyes.  He is old enough to give him the tube of sun screen and allow him to take care of himself.  Too often, the excitement of the beach, mountains or other activities overwhelms him and he doesn't take the time to prepare.  No, we don't need to use a truck full of sunscreen but it really does work.  Preparing before hand is helpful as well.  Plan to be outside on the weekends at least.  Some sun exposure is good and needed.  I do not recommend tanning beds.

It is not just the sun's rays that can affect us.  It's heat can cause us to dehydrate through sweat and evaporation.  Out of our routine, we usually do not drink as much precisely at the time when we need to drink more.  I find it interesting that the time of year with the highest rate of kidney stones is September and October.  The reason is that it takes on average three months for a stone to form and those who don't drink enough water in the summer time pay the price in the fall.  If you travel by plane, bring an empty water bottle with you. Fill it up when you get past security.  If you will not be near a drinking source, make sure you plan to bring plenty of water with you.  Staying well hydrated will keep your energy level up, prevent headaches and muscle soreness.

One of the most common reasons I see patients in my office after they have been on vacation is for foot pain.    Many spend a lot of time on the feet when on vacation.  Make sure that you are preparing before you leave. It is just one more good reason to stay active and to exercise.  Make sure you bring footwear that will help, not hurt.  If you are staying at a place that has a freezer, take one of those water bottles mentioned above and freeze it.  When you get back at the end of the day, roll your feet over the bottle on the floor.  It will help cool off inflammation and stretch out the tissues in the feet.

Have a great summer time.  Hopefully by taking a few minutes to prepare for the sun, by staying well hydrating and by taking care of your feet you will be able to both enjoy your vacation without having to pay unnecessary consequences later.